Orlando Pirates confirmed the exit of several first-team players, with Thabiso Sesane and Selaelo Rasebotja leading the latest departures at the club.
The Buccaneers have been one of the most active teams on the transfer market, bringing in new players while also releasing a handful of stars from their squad.
So far, the Soweto giants have signed Gamphani Lungu, Mthetheleli Mthiyane, Sbangani Zulu, Bohlale Ngwato, Neo Rapoo, Matome Mmolai, and Aphiwe Baliti. But the latter will remain at Siwelele FC on a season-long loan.
Pirates have taken a robust approach to the market, beefing up their squad as they look to defend the Betway Premiership title, while fighting for other domestic trophies and the CAF Champions League.
Having already welcomed six new players, Pirates have released notable names to make way for the new recruits, who are already taking part in the club’s pre-season training ahead of the 2026/27 campaign.
In a shocking move, Pirates let go of Sesane, who has been tipped as a possible future captain for the Sea Robbers after playing a key role in the club’s success over the past two seasons under then-head coach Jose Riveiro. The talented centre-back is leaving Pirates alongside Rasebotja, Gomolemo Khoto, Siyabonga Ndlozi, Sello Green, Blessing Ngiba, and Sonwabo Khumalo.
Sesane and Rasebotja will join Siwelele FC for the upcoming season, while Khoto and Ndlozi are heading to Sekhukhune United. On the other hand, Khumalo and Ngiba will begin a new chapter with Motsepe Foundation Championship side Midlands Wanderers FC, with Green moving to Durban City FC.
The Mayfair outfit made the announcement of the latest exits on Monday afternoon, thanking all the players for their contributions on and off the pitch.
ORLANDO PIRATES AXE SEVEN PLAYERS AHEAD OF NEW SEASON
“Orlando Pirates Football Club can confirm movements around the team ahead of the start of the new season,” Pirates said on their website.
“The club can confirm that the following players have left the club to pursue their careers elsewhere: Thabiso Sesane [Siwelele FC], Selaelo Rasebotja [Siwelele FC], Siyabonga Ndlozi [Sekhukhune United], Gomolemo Khoto [Sekhukhune United], Sonwabo Khumalo [Midlands], Blessing Ngiba [Midlands], Seth Green [Durban City FC].
“Each of these players has made a valuable contribution to the club during their time at Orlando Pirates, both on and off the field, and their efforts have not gone unnoticed. The club extends its sincere gratitude to each player for their dedication and professionalism throughout their tenure with us.
“On behalf of the entire Orlando Pirates family, the club wishes these players continued success and fulfilment as they embark on the next chapters of their respective careers.”
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